The white-collared pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
This species is largely confined to the Ethiopian and Eritrean highlands, occupying plateaus, rocky slopes, and cliff faces as well as urban centers and agricultural landscapes. It adapts well to human-modified environments, often using buildings and bridges as substitutes for natural ledges. In rural areas it frequents open fields, fallows, and roadsides. Water sources and grain stores attract flocks, especially in the dry season. It is generally absent from lowland arid plains.
Altitude Range
1800–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-collared pigeon is endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands and is readily recognized by its crisp white hind-collar. It often frequents towns, church compounds, and rocky escarpments, showing a notable tolerance of people. The species forms small to medium flocks outside the breeding season and commonly forages on the ground for grain and seeds.
Temperament
social and alert
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs during the breeding season and in small to medium flocks when not breeding. Typically nests on cliff ledges, rocky outcrops, and building ledges, constructing a simple stick platform. Pairs are monogamous, and the clutch is usually two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls consist of deep, mellow cooing phrases delivered from exposed perches. The song is a repetitive hoo-oo series, slower and more resonant than that of many town pigeons.
Plumage
Smooth grey to brownish-grey body with a clean white hind-collar on the nape, darker head and neck, and uniform grey wings with darker flight feathers. The tail is grey with a darker terminal band and the underparts are plain grey.
Diet
Primarily eats seeds and grains, including spilled cereals such as barley and wheat. It also takes small legumes and grass seeds picked from the ground. In season, it may consume small fruits and berries, especially from shrubs along field edges. Foraging is mostly terrestrial, with birds walking and pecking methodically.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open farmland, recently harvested fields, roadsides, and town squares where grain is available. It also forages around granaries, threshing areas, and livestock enclosures where seeds accumulate.
